Jacob Hall

Jacob Hall (fl. 1668) was an English rope-dancer, who distinguished himself as a performer on the tight-rope.

Career The memoirs of Philibert de Gramont indicate that Hall was a popular performer by 1662. In 1668 Hall attained his greatest popularity. The London court encouraged him, and he described himself as "sworn servant to his Majestie". Lady Castlemain, later the Duchess of Cleveland, to avenge herself on Charles II for neglecting her, fell—according to Samuel Pepys and Gramont—in love with him. In April 1668 he was a regular visitor at her house, and received a salary from her.

Hall appears to have given his earliest entertainment in a booth at Smithfield, in connection with Bartholomew Fair. Pepys witnessed his performance there on 28 August 1668, and described his dancing on ropes. On 21 September 1668 Pepys attended again, and then met Hall at a tavern. Hall told Pepys that he had often fallen, but had never broken a limb.